Radio Orange: 25 years of colorful voices from Brigittenau!

Radio Orange: 25 years of colorful voices from Brigittenau!

With a colorful mix of music, political discussions and social issues Radio Orange 94.0 an indispensable part of the Vienna media landscape since 1998. Located at Klosterneuburger Straße 1, in the heart of Vienna-Brigittenau, the station broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As a freely and non-commercially operated local radio station, Radio Orange is an example of how the initiatives and commitment of individuals in the 1980s and 1990s can create a vibrant platform for diverse voices.

In 1993, the previous ORF monopoly was overturned by a ruling by the European Court of Justice. This laid the foundation for the founding of the “Freies Radio Wien” association, which received the broadcasting license in 1997. Radio Orange finally began operations on August 17, 1998 and has since developed into an important forum for social discourse as well as artistic and political expression. The station broadcasts content in 16 different languages, providing a platform for voices that often receive little attention in traditional media.

Commitment and diversity

What makes Radio Orange special is the voluntary work of the program makers. These come from various areas of civil society, including activism, science, art and migrant communities. They bring their experiences and perspectives and help ensure that the program is not only informative but also diverse.

With a clear focus on equal opportunities, Radio Orange actively fights against discrimination and exclusion. “We want all parts of society to be reflected in our programs,” said a spokesman for the station. The participation models are low-threshold and those interested can conclude an annual broadcasting agreement, which is awarded transparently and fairly. A good hand in selecting topics and contributions ensures that aspects that are often ignored in other media come to light.

Part of the large family of free radios

Radio Orange is part of the larger network of Free radio, which extend throughout Germany and Austria. The Federal Association of Independent Radios (BFR) currently brings together 34 members and promotes exchange among the initiatives. Free radios are not only media, but also places of social interaction that place particular value on independence and diversity. They reject commercial advertising and work on the collaborative development of their program content and objectives.

As part of this commitment, marginalized groups and people who often have no voice in other media can present their concerns and stories in an open setting. The exchange and joint organization not only promote the creativity of the broadcasters, but also the media competence of the moderators and listeners.

A look at non-commercial broadcasting

The idea of ​​non-commercial broadcasting, as expressed in Wikipedia is an important pillar in the German and Austrian media landscape. This type of broadcasting is not designed to make a profit, but rather pursues the goal of giving all interested parties access to production resources and program content. This also includes local radio, which usually broadcasts regionally limited programs.

Financing is usually provided by our own funds and third-party funds, such as donations or public support. Where possible, cooperation with state media authorities ensures a stable basis. Free radios and open channels offer an important platform for creative expression and the teaching of media skills in society.

With its open approach and clear commitment to diversity, Radio Orange is a shining example of what non-commercial broadcasting can achieve: access for all and the empowerment of voices that otherwise often go unheard.